On the afternoon of 15/10, the Department of Mother and Child, under the Ministry of Health, organized a rally for World Menopause Day 2026. Deputy Director General Tong Tran Ha stated that Vietnam has approximately 13 million women aged 45 to 69, currently in perimenopause or menopause. The average age of menopause for Vietnamese women is around 48-50.

This group plays a vital role in families and contributes to socioeconomic development. Post-menopause, women can live for another 20-30 years, necessitating comprehensive healthcare to maintain their activity and long-term quality of life, said Ha.

Menopause is a natural physiological stage, not a disease. However, hormonal shifts during this transition can affect physical, mental, sexual health, sleep, cardiovascular function, bone and joint health, and metabolism.

Dr. Le Quang Thanh, Vice President of the Vietnam Obstetrics and Gynecology Association, estimated that the prevalence of osteoporosis among menopausal women in Vietnam is about 30-40%. This is primarily due to the decline in estrogen during menopausal transition, which alters bone metabolism and promotes the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone. When bone resorption outpaces bone formation, bone density decreases, making women more susceptible to osteoporosis and fractures as they age.

During the menopausal transition, the rate of bone loss can reach approximately 2% annually. Total bone loss in the spine and hip can amount to 10-12%.

Women are at risk of osteoporosis when entering menopause. Photo: Medical News Today

Osteoporosis often progresses silently, showing no clear symptoms in its early stages. Many women only discover the condition after experiencing a fracture or developing complications that impair mobility. Therefore, experts advise that bone health care should begin in perimenopause, rather than waiting for an osteoporosis diagnosis before seeking intervention.

Experts emphasize that the calcium requirements for middle-aged women depend not only on age but also on diet, overall health, and osteoporosis risk. According to recommendations from the National Institute of Nutrition in 2026, perimenopausal and menopausal women need 900 mg of calcium daily.

However, it is not a given that all perimenopausal and menopausal women need to take calcium supplements at the same dosage. First, dietary intake should be assessed to determine the amount of calcium already consumed. If the diet meets daily needs, additional supplementation may not be necessary. If intake is insufficient, supplements can be considered under professional guidance.

Attention must also be paid to how supplements are taken. The amount of calcium from supplements per dose should not exceed 500-600 mg. If higher doses are required, they should be divided throughout the day to support absorption.

Beyond calcium, vitamin D plays a crucial role in intestinal calcium absorption and maintaining bone health. Women need to ensure adequate vitamin D intake through diet, appropriate sun exposure, and supplements when indicated or based on actual need. Product selection should consider individual nutritional needs, underlying medical conditions, tolerance, and adherence, rather than relying solely on advertising.

Elderly individuals, those with kidney disease, or those taking multiple medications should consult a doctor before taking calcium supplements. Prolonged use of high doses can increase the risk of hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and kidney stones. Calcium can also affect the absorption of certain medications and micronutrients, so the timing of its use should be adjusted according to professional medical advice for each type of medication.

Deputy Director General Tong Tran Ha speaks at the event. Photo: Thu Thuy

World Menopause Day 2026 adopted the theme "Chronic Pain in Midlife," with the message "From awareness to evidence-based care." Experts advise women not to silently endure health changes during this stage. Maintaining a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, combined with physical activity, helps the body adapt and remain healthier during this period.

Le Nga